NEW DELHI: The Kerala High Court Advocates Association (KHCAA) has cautioned lawyers against filming reels or posting videos from inside or around court premises, warning that such conduct could amount to professional misconduct under the Advocates Act.
The advisory comes amid a growing trend of advocates recording social media content in court corridors and other areas of the high court complex, often while wearing their professional robes.
KHCAA Issues Formal Warning
In a notice issued on June 3, the KHCAA urged its members to immediately stop creating and sharing reels or videos from within the high court premises.
The association said such activities are inconsistent with the dignity, decorum, and ethical standards expected of members of the legal profession.
According to the notice, advocates are required to maintain professional conduct at all times and avoid actions that could undermine the image of the judiciary or the legal community.
Social Media Content May Invite Disciplinary Action
The association cited Section 49(1)(c) of the Advocates Act, 1961 and the rules framed by the Bar Council of India governing professional conduct and etiquette.
The notice warned that lawyers who continue to create or circulate such content could face disciplinary proceedings under Section 35 of the Advocates Act, which deals with professional misconduct.
What Does Section 49(1)(c) Say?
Section 49(1)(c) empowers the Bar Council of India to frame rules prescribing the standards of professional conduct and etiquette that advocates must follow.
Under these rules, lawyers are expected to:
- Maintain dignity and professionalism at all times
- Uphold the honour of the legal profession
- Conduct themselves in a manner that inspires public confidence in the justice system
- Avoid behaviour that could diminish the standing of the profession
The KHCAA’s position is that recording and sharing social media reels from court premises may conflict with these obligations, particularly when such content is created for entertainment, publicity, or personal branding.
What Is Professional Misconduct?
Professional misconduct refers to behaviour by an advocate that violates the ethical standards prescribed by law or professional regulations.
If a complaint is filed—or if a State Bar Council takes suo motu cognisance—the matter can be referred to a disciplinary committee for inquiry.
The committee examines whether the conduct in question falls short of the standards expected of a legal practitioner.
Possible Consequences Under Section 35
If an advocate is found guilty of professional misconduct, the disciplinary committee may impose one of several penalties:
Reprimand
The lawyer may receive a formal warning or censure for the misconduct.
Suspension From Practice
The advocate may be barred from practising law for a specified period.
Removal From Roll of Advocates
In the most serious cases, the lawyer’s name may be removed from the roll of advocates, effectively ending their right to practise law.
Legal experts note that in cases involving social media reels or videos from court premises, a reprimand or temporary suspension would generally be considered more likely than the harshest penalty.
Reputation Risks Beyond Formal Punishment
Apart from disciplinary action, a finding of professional misconduct can have long-term consequences for a lawyer’s reputation and career.
Such findings may affect an advocate’s credibility before courts, professional standing among peers, and public perception of their conduct.
The KHCAA’s notice reflects broader concerns within the legal community about maintaining courtroom decorum and preserving the dignity of judicial institutions in the age of social media.
